Lewis Hamilton's move to Mercedes from McLaren has been motivated by a number
of factors. Tom Cary examines the most important.

He wants a fresh start. Perhaps the most important factor behind Hamilton’s move to Mercedes. He had grown up with McLaren and, as with all relationships, there were occasions when their partnership became strained. Too many occasions in recent times.

Mercedes should have a competitive carHamilton is taking a big gamble here but you can mount a persuasive argument that Mercedes, with their vast resources and engineering army at Brackley, are well placed to explode on to theF1 scene

The 2014 regulations will help them Chief among those arguments are the upcoming changes to the engine specification. In 2014 a V6 1.6litre turbo will be introduced and Mercedes will be throwing everything at that.

Ross Brawn Brawn has won over half the world championships on offer this century and was behind Michael Schumacher for all seven of his, including all five at Ferrari where they built a dynasty together. Hamilton will be hoping he has not lost his magic touch.

Nico Rosberg Hamilton and Rosberg are old karting team mates and friends, playing with each other as teenagers, sometimes aboard former world champion Keke Rosberg's yacht. When Rosberg won his first race in China this year, Hamilton was effusive with his praise. The development of their partnership/relationship will be interesting to watch. Mercedes claim they won't have a No 1 driver.

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Money Clearly a factor, although perhaps not as large a factor as you might think. McLaren were thought to have put in a very competitive offer themselves at the 11th hour. But a rumoured $100million over three years is not to be sniffed at.

Commercial freedom This, perhaps more than the basic salary, was a factor. McLaren are notoriously tight about allowing their drivers to take on personal sponsorships and do anything outside of the McLaren bubble. Mercedes will allow more freedom in that area.

XIX Entertainment Simon Fuller’s management company have struck up a joint venture with Hamilton to cash in on personal sponsorships and endorsements. At McLaren they were getting nowhere. Clearly this move suits XIX, although only if Hamilton wins.